Inter meet Pope Leo and then fans join Lazio boycott

“For this reason, whilst I congratulate you, I invite you to reflect on the experience you have had, so that, in this moment of success, you may become bearers of a message that is particularly useful for the growth of young people. Many of them, at this time, look to you as their ‘heroes,’ as role models to emulate, and this entrusts you with a responsibility that goes beyond performance and calls upon you, as sportsmen, to be witnesses to values.

“I would like to emphasize this, because young people today truly need role models, and what you do has an impact, which can be positive or negative, on the life of the young. And so, I would really like to leave you with this thought of the great responsibility you bear.

“Some 35 years ago, Saint John Paul II spoke of this during a meeting held precisely with some representatives of your club. After recalling its significant role in the history of Italian football, he added, addressing the players and managers: ‘Ensure that many may recognize in you and in your conduct authenticity and integrity that stand the test of time’.

“These are words that I too would like to repeat to you, whilst reiterating my congratulations. I cordially bless you and your families, and wish you all the best.”

MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 21: The FC Internazionale fans show their support during the Coppa Italia match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at San Siro on April 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

However, the atmosphere inside the Stadio Olimpico is going to be unusually quiet, because Inter and Lazio ultras have meet up outside for a shared protest.

Lazio fans have been boycotting the home games for several months in protest at President Claudio Lotito and the way he runs the club.

Seeing as the two sets of ultras have been twinned for many years, they decided to unite together in boycotting today’s match.

❌🏟️ Niente stadio Olimpico per i tifosi di Lazio e Inter 📸 Le immagini dell’incontro tra le due curve: cori dei biancocelesti per i nerazzurri, cori dei nerazzurri per i biancocelesti. Ma anche cori congiunti contro il Milan e Lotito 📍Ponte Milvio, Roma

Both of them will be in the stands for the Coppa Italia Final, though, suspending their protest in a moment that could transform the Aquile’s season.